Why Travel to St. Petersburg, Russia
St. Petersburg is the gem of Russia truly worth exploring while in the country. Founded by Tsar Peter the Great back in 1703, it is now called the City of Tsars because of its magnificent architecture and eventful history. Some also call it the Venice of the North, as the city is traversed by numerous canals and features 342 bridges! Whichever suits it best, St. Petersburg is a must-visit without a doubt.
Start your St. Petersburg tour by visiting one of the most popular landmarks in the city, the State Hermitage Museum. Consisting of five buildings linked together, the museum offers an imposing collection of over three million exhibits situated in a total of 360 rooms. The collection was first established by Catherine the Great and has been enriched later by Nicholas I. It was also enhanced by the state by adding private collections seized from numerous wealthy noble families in Russia. One visit to this exceptional treasury of paintings, sculptures and other artwork might not be enough, but it will undoubtedly impress you inside and out each time you're there.
Another significant stop of the St. Petersburg itinerary is the Grand Palace in Peterhof. Completed back in 1721 and set in the city outskirts, it now houses authentic artwork and original pieces of furniture, as well as the Throne Room featuring Tsar Peter's impressive red velvet throne, the Chesme and Picture Halls, and Peter's Study. It is not only the sublime interior that attracts numerous tourists to admire the site each year, as the exterior is also quite a view to gaze at. The lavish yet dainty architecture complements the beautiful landscapes of the Lower and Upper Gardens, as well as the Grand Cascade.
Some other monuments of outstanding architectural heritage in the city worth taking notice are the gorgeous Catherine Palace (set in Pushkin), and the Yusupov Palace on the Moyka River, housing the fabulous Faberge Museum. However, St. Petersburg travel includes delving into some 21st-century creations as well. A must-visit for modern art lovers is the Street Art Museum, featuring exhibitions that change every year according to the relevant topics in the world.
What's for cathedrals, the ones to surely add to your sightseeing plans are the historic Peter and Paul Cathedral, located on the territory of the Peter and Paul Fortress. The grand St. Isaac's Cathedral, the unique Kazan Cathedral, as well as the ornate Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood are worth checking out too.
St. Petersburg sightseeing is undoubtedly a must for those interested in architecture, however, its bustling cultural scene, rich history, and authentic heritage will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.